Heart Sutra

The Heart Sutra is one of the most well-known and revered texts of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition. Containing the essence of the profound Perfection of Wisdom Sutras, its main subject matter is the ultimate nature of reality--shunyata or emptiness--the realization of which is the key to ending to our problems and dissatisfaction forever. The Heart Sutra also implicitly teaches the vast stages of the path to enlightenment.

In this weekend course, we will unpack some of the most important points taught in this sutra and explore how to relate it to our lives and experience.

About the TeacherEmily Hsu completed FPMT's 7-year Master's Program at Instituto Lama Tsong Khapa in Italy in 2004, a condensed version of the geshe studies curriculum. As a graduate of the Master's Program, she is authorized to teach courses which are normally taught by geshes. After completing this intensive study program Emily subsequently completed a ten-month solitary retreat in Spain to integrate the material. Emily continues to do at least one three month retreat in Nepal every year in order to deepen her practice, transforming intellectual knowledge into felt experience. Emily Hsu is currently the resident teacher at our sister center Ocean of Compassion Buddhist Center (OCBC) in San Jose, CA where she teaches a variety of classes including FPMT’s basic program. Emily is also one of the few teachers selected by Lama Zopa Rinpoche as being qualified to lead this type of retreat on shiné (calm abiding).

"Emily’s teaching goes beyond the simple explanation of complex texts and ideas; she explains things in a way that show us how to apply the Buddha’s teachings in our lives and leads us by excellent example. She is easy to confide in and gives appropriate advice, even on topics that are uncomfortable to talk about." ~ a student from Ocean of Compassion Buddhist Center

Je Tsongkhapa Lobsang Drakpa (1357- 1419) was one of the greatest figures in the history of Tibetan Buddhism and the founder of the Gelug tradition.

The year 2019 marks the 600th anniversary of Lama Tsongkhapa's parinirvana. Tse Chen Ling will be offering a series of programs that celebrate the life and lineage of Lama Tsongkhapa. These programs will reflect the core teachings and unique features of the Gelug tradition.